Woolworths stores on the Central Coast and OzHarvest are partnering with Central Coast charities to help provide meals for those in need as Christmas approaches.
The ambitious goal of $3.5M has been set for the OzHarvest Christmas Appeal, with Woolworths customers able to support vulnerable Australians by simply rounding up their supermarket shop to the nearest dollar while in store, or by adding a 50 cent token to their basket between now and December 25.
This year’s OzHarvest Christmas Appeal comes as recent reports shows that 337,000 households in NSW and the ACT receive assistance from food relief organisations in a typical month.
OzHarvest delivers fresh and nutritious food to more than 1,800 charities which help feed people who are affected by food insecurity. 61% of the charities that receive OzHarvest food have seen an increase in demand in the last six months.
Woolworths Supermarkets Head of Community and Sponsorships, Sarah De La Mare, said many many Australians will do it tough this festive season after what has been another challenging year.
“We are committed to helping feed those in the Gosford district who are in need through our long term partnership with OzHarvest,” she said.
“Together we’ve been providing food relief to local Aussie communities for more than 10 years.
“Thanks to our annual financial commitment, donation of surplus food from stores and the generous support of our customers, OzHarvest has been able to deliver millions of meals to vulnerable Australians.
“This Christmas, a little change will go a long way as together we aim to help provide the equivalent of seven million meals to local communities in need across the country.”
OzHarvest Founder and CEO Ronni Kahn said supported charities say over a third of their clients are seeking food relief for the first time, with families with children the hardest hit.
“The incredible level of generosity that comes from Erina, Gosford and Lisarow and their customers allows OzHarvest to go that extra mile, delivering more food to those who need it most,” Kahn said.
“Our impact goes way beyond the meals we deliver, offering comfort and hope, especially at this tough time of year.”
For more information on how to support the OzHarvest Christmas Appeal, please visit www.woolworths.com.au/shop/discover/community/ozharvest.
Source:
Media release, Nov 10
Woolworths